Introduction
Today, many people seek tanning treatments and products to obtain a sun-kissed radiance. The Tanning Truth, Tanning Supplies Unlimited, and Glo Tanning websites advocate the benefits of tanning and include justifications for achieving a bronzed skin tone. There are numerous risks associated with artificially achieved tans, as dermatologists have proven; however, tanning websites assure that there is no harm from this procedure if it is performed correctly.
Tanning: Benefits vs. Dangers
Tanning Truth
Before reviewing the Tanning Truth website, I had never thought that tanning through natural sunbathing is so beneficial for our health. Tanning Truth is a website that focuses on providing information about the benefits of tanning. One point they make is that UV light exposure may boost vitamin D synthesis (Tanning Truth, n.d.). Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune system function; thus, sunbathing may be beneficial for overall health (Fahlman et al., 2020).
Tanning Truth states that moderate exposure to UV rays may enhance mood and mental well-being by triggering the creation of endorphins in the brain. Chapter 3, “The Atmosphere as Natural Protection,” explores the Earth’s atmosphere functioning as a natural barrier against harmful UV radiation from the sun, which is important to consider when sunbathing regularly (Fahlman et al., 2020). The text describes how ozone molecules in the stratosphere absorb and scatter incoming UV radiation, preventing it from reaching Earth’s surface and safeguarding living organisms from damage.
Tanning Supplies Unlimited
I have always thought that tanning is harmful for our skin and promotes the development of cancer. However, the Tanning Supplies Unlimited website promotes indoor tanning products as a safe alternative to natural sunlight. They claim that indoor tanning enables people to regulate their UV ray exposure and reduce the likelihood of sunburn or skin damage (Tanning Supplies Unlimited, 2023). Tanning Supplies Unlimited highlights the simplicity and accessibility of indoor tanning for those without access to natural sunlight or living in locations with low sunshine.
Glo Tanning
Before reading Glo Tanning’s website, I had never used artificial self-tanners on my skin because I thought they were useless. However, their application promotes the use of self-tanners to produce a bronzed complexion without the risk of exposure to damaging UV radiation (Glo Tanning, n.d.). They claim that self-tanners are a safer option than conventional tanning procedures, as they allow people to achieve their desired tan without the risk of skin injury or premature aging. Glo Tanning also showcases the flexibility of self-tanners, allowing users to achieve varying degrees of tan intensity based on individual preferences.
Scientific Evidence
Based on evidence-based data, I found that dermatologists have conducted several studies on the hazards of tanning, consistently concluding that there is no safe tan for any skin type. The research, published in respected scientific journals, emphasizes the detrimental effects of UV radiation on the skin, including accelerated aging, sunburn, and increased susceptibility to skin cancer (Dessinioti & Stratigos, 2022). Tanning websites tout the advantages of this procedure, while dermatologists cite research that contradicts these claims, stating that it promotes cancer, accelerates aging, and alters the quality of the skin (Dessinioti & Stratigos, 2022). People need to prioritize their skin health and take care to shield themselves from dangerous UV radiation (Dessinioti & Stratigos, 2022). My stance on this topic aligns with dermatologists’ warnings about the risks of pursuing a tan through artificial methods, such as indoor tanning or self-tanners.
Conclusion
Overall, the debate over the safety of tanning remains controversial. Websites advocate tanning for cosmetic purposes and vitamin D synthesis. Nevertheless, these assertions are contradicted by research published in peer-reviewed journals that emphasizes the dangers of tanning for individuals of all skin types. The detrimental impacts of UV radiation on the skin, including accelerated aging and heightened susceptibility to skin cancer, must not be overlooked. Based on this information, it is evident that tanning should not be considered a healthy practice.
References
Dessinioti, C., & Stratigos, A. J. (2022). An epidemiological update on indoor tanning and the risk of skin cancers. Current Oncology, 29(11), 8886–8903.
Fahlman, B. D., Purvis-Roberts, K., Kirk, J. S., Kelly, R. M., & Daubenmire, P. L. (2020). Chemistry in context (10th ed.). McGraw-Hill.
Glo Tanning. (n.d.). Sunbeds & Booths.
Tanning Supplies Unlimited. (2023). The green light is on for red light therapy.
Tanning Truth.com. (n.d).